For a mix of the two - great beaches and some nightlife - Paros is perfect. Paleochora is the main resort town on the south-west coast. Located 80km southwest of the town of Heraklion, it is much more secluded than your average beach, since it's just off the edge of (and sheltered by) a large gorge. On a budget? 1,438 reviews. The gorge became a national park in 1962, particularly as a refuge for the rare kri-kri (Cretan goat), which is elusive on the rest of the island. Transfer time: 15 minutes from Heraklion International airport. The pink sands of Elafonisi are one of the main attractions in west Crete, with coachloads arriving every day to bathe in the glorious lagoon-like waters. Although be warned, the walk takes five to seven hours and can be strenuous, especially at the peak of summer. Boutique and luxury: Cressa Corona Boutique Hotel is the best address in town. #7 Best Value of 66 Quiet Resorts in Crete "The resort location gives quiet seclusion and comfort with its own small beach, sun terraces and infinity pool all with beautiful views over Mirabello Bay." "Secluded enough to be quiet and relaxing but also close enough to the picturesque town of Agios St Nikolas." Visit hotel website 2022 8. The scenery as you traverse the coast road with steep hills and lush greenery gives views that will take your breath away. 302 reviews. Or the clean and modern Central City Hotel and Aeolios Design Hotel. The KTEL bus station is in the new town, a 10-minute walk from the main harbour see PDF timetables. The infamous resort of Malia is known for its 24hr party scene its the best spot for nightlife on Crete, as legions of teenage boys well know. The vibe is family-friendly thanks to its sheltered bay which is lined with a number of traditional tavernas. The coastline is developed on either side, but it was the introduction of budget flights to Chania airport that really put it on the map. Two Cretes minor islands Chryssi and Koufonisi are just off this part of the shore. For all intents and purposes its a real treasure. But it would be a shame to miss out on the excellent tavernas in Panormo. Although the hippies have long since been moved on, and the caves protected and closed to the public, the town retains a laidback feel despite the explosion of tourism here. Once youve driven (carefully) to the town youll find a laid-back vibe and easy-going atmosphere that is synonymous with most of the lesser-known spots on the island. Mythology aside you can visit the ruins of the Minoan Zakros palace, which is a genuine archaeological site. Grecotel Meli Palace and Kalimera Kriti Resort both have direct beach access. Slap bang in the middle of the northern coastline, the city of Heraklion (also spelt Iraklio or Iraklion) is the capital and its surrounding coastline is some of the busiest and most developed on Crete. See More, A glamorous coastal property offering the upmost in luxury on Crete's picturesque coast. 9.8/5 (157 reviews) "The bed was so comfortable. The south is wild and remote with a spectacularly rocky coast and a few standout beach resorts. Try the spotless Marina Hotel, or the beautiful white and blue decor and sea views atElektra. But there are plenty of alternatives if your budget doesnt stretch quite that far, have a look at Blue Bay Resort Hotel, Peninsula Resort Hotel, Pela Mare, Seascape Luxury Residences, and Acro Wellness Suites. Historically all of the tourist accommodation has been outside the city in the summer resorts. ; SOUTH: Most of the main beach resorts are on the south coast, busier on the west side and getting quieter the further east you get. Again due to its relative remoteness, youll be able to leave your disco shoes at home as well have none of that here, thanks very much. 5km south of Plaka is the small beach town of Elounda, one of Cretes most characterful resorts and home to some of its premier luxury hotels. Crete is filled with fine beaches, ancient treasures, dreamy villages, wonderful cuisine, and hospitable locals who hold their traditional culture in high regard. Also along the main harbour, youll find the stylish Elia Zampeliou Boutique Hotel and the funky Alcanea Boutique Hotel. Domes of Elounda, Autograph Collection Show prices Enter dates to see prices Rooms mirror the outdoors, blue and breezy, some suites come with terraces and pools. The main village is set 1km back from the beach and is a popular area for villas and expats. Packages to Stalis are available through TUI. Cool or what? Panormos is the first beach resort that you hit east of Rethymnon that has a proper village feel and isnt just an outpost of the city. Except for the blockbuster beaches that attract day trips, its not ideal for beach tourism. #1 Best Value of 80 Beach Resorts in Crete "Highlights were Excellent, clean sandy beach and lot of sun beds on beach, around pools etc. Its a 40-minute drive to Rethymno. Several of Eloundas top luxury hotels are actually in Plaka, so read the section above if you havent already. Outside this, its a large resort town with an excellent (though busy) beach, an unashamedly commercial centre, and a charming old quarter (Old Malia), where youll find traditional houses and tavernas. You can always visit the amazing chapel of Prophet Elias.
25 Most Beautiful Beaches in the World - Travel + Leisure It also provides stunning views from all angles. Few make it out this far, despite its calling card the impressive (but empty) Venetian castle on its shore. The LATO Boutique Hotel is more modern and has harbour views. The older part of town (Ano Hersonissos or Palia Hersonissos) is set back from the coast and has lots of little family-run tavernas. Three fine dining restaurants, state of the art spa, private sandy beach. The Spinalonga peninsula is connected to the town by a causeway the peninsula curves right around and the UNESCO-listed island sits at its tip, creating a natural harbour sheltered from the elements. Its only a matter of steps to the beach.
15 Quiet Beach Towns in America - PureWow Both a beautiful and quiet place to visit in Crete. Transfer time: 2 hours 30 minutes from Heraklion International airport.
THE 10 BEST Crete Beaches (with Photos) - Tripadvisor All rooms come with an outdoor pool and private hot tubs. Check out Aspri Petra Apartments or Asterias Village. Accommodation in Frangokastello is all self-catered and around the same price point. } The only parking is on the street which is very limited. To the west of Sitia is the small coastal village of Mochlos which sports two islets with Minoan excavations. Honeymoons - A haven of tranquility with private villas with mountian and sea views, spoiling massages and haute cuisine overlooking the bay. Whitewashed and chic Cyano Hotel is the best place to stay in Plakias rooms are spotless, the beds are comfy, and its a short walk to the shops and beach. Its raw beauty is undeniable, with glassy aquamarine waters and swirls of pastel-pink sands kissing the shore - a natural phenomenon caused by thousands of . BEST PLACES TO STAY IN CRETE IN AGIOS NIKOLAOS ($$$) Minos Beach Art Hotel ($$) Miramare Resort & Spa ($) Ikaros Art Hotel FIND AGIOS NIKOLAOS HOTEL DEALS 5. Lovely beaches, ideal for a romantic break or family holiday.
Best beaches in Crete - Lonely Planet THE 10 BEST Crete Beach Resorts 2023 (with Prices) - Tripadvisor The other top choice in Rethymnon is Rimondi Estate whose courtyard swimming pool is becoming an Instagram star in its own right. Palm-fringed Preveli is one of the most unique and beautiful beaches on Crete. It is a port city that offers an urban vibe with a touch of nature. This ultra-luxurious haven combines the best of villa and hotel facilities, with over half the villas having private infinity pools.
THE 10 BEST Crete Luxury Resorts 2023 (Prices) - Tripadvisor Off the beaten track, this tranquil hotel is ideal for a simple seaside holiday for families. The beach of Myrtos is a hidden treasure which, rarely gets crowded and provides a real opportunity to take a load off and truly relax. Aside from the peacefulness of the region, it is hard not to be astounded by the artwork the elements left behind- a series of terraces in the rock face which, will undoubtedly leave you awestruck.
The harbourfront is lined with restaurants and smart boutiques, and the narrow alleys filled with souvenir shops, and the colourful tables and twinkly lights of tavernas vying for your trade. Accommodation is spacious and secluded, the best options have heated seawater pools, but all are utterly indulgent. Makrigialis, on the other hand, is a small and friendly traditional beach resort. Shark Creek Beach, Great Harbour Cay, Berry Islands, The Bahamas. Its known for its big waves, fishing heritage, and seafood tavernas set around a small crescent of beach. Bali is roughly halfway between Rethymno and Heraklion there are bus services both but not as frequent as other resorts. Concur with these, we love Crete. Astoria Hotel is a small family-run hotel with sea views and coastal decor. Several celebrities (including Brad and Angelina in happier days) have been spotted walking on its sandy shores, this combined with it being a hotspot for European dignitaries just adds to the appeal. Euphoria Resort 7. The resort itself is sleepy but like most in the area the beach gets very busy in the summer. If you are staying one or more nights, you dont need to worry about thumping music or all-night parties. Perhaps, Domatas unspoiled beauty has been preserved this long because the region has no roads or infrastructures. If it gets a bit too quiet for you, Diskos is only around the corner, where tented villagers of camping earthy types take up half the beach, and you can buy handmade trinkets from pop-up hippy shops. Its a relaxed resort town (well compared to its busier neighbours) and if you want a no-nonsense turn-up and relax on the beach holiday then this is a good choice. You are properly in the land of Greek mythology, I expected Jason and his argonauts to pop over the horizon at any moment whilst we sat on the beach. So many people make a beeline for Rethymno that its surrounding villages are something of a hidden gem. On a budget? No roads lead here and there are no nightclubs or nightlife.